JP7158391B2 - Microphone connectors, assemblies and systems - Google Patents

Description

This application relates generally to microphones and microphone connectors. Specifically, the present application includes a sleeve and receptacle having releasably lockable keyed engagements and an audio signal from a connected microphone and a connector for indicating the mode or state of the microphone. The present invention relates to a microphone connector capable of transmitting both an illumination signal to an illumination mounted on a mounted microphone.

Many types of microphones are used in various sound reinforcement applications where audio from a source (such as a speaker) is captured, amplified, and transmitted to the listener through appropriate amplification and speaker systems. It is Microphones may be used in a variety of such applications. A microphone connector typically connects a microphone to a cable such that an electrical connection is made between the microphone and a downstream audio component (such as a mixer and amplifier) to deliver audio signals picked up by the microphone to this downstream audio component. Or connect to the plug.

In some applications, such as conference environments, multiple microphones are used to capture audio from multiple sources. For example, sound reinforcement in environments such as venues, conference rooms, videoconferencing applications, etc., may involve using microphones to capture sound from many sources active in such environments. Such sound sources may include, for example, speakers. The captured sound flows to a local audience within the environment via amplified speakers (for sound reinforcement) or to another location away from the environment (such as via television and/or webcast). Sometimes.

Given the large number of microphones utilized in these and other types of applications, it is advisable not to activate all of the microphones at once to avoid undesirable results such as feedback, pickup of room noise, etc. often desirable. Therefore, in applications where a large number of microphones are used, systems often have one or more microphones active at the same time to pick up audio only from active sources, such as active talkers in a large group of people. control is utilized. In connection with selectively activating a microphone, indicating to an individual using such a microphone the status or mode of the microphone (e.g., if the microphone is active or "on" and if the microphone is inactive or "muted"). Accordingly, the conferencing system includes visual indicators of the status of various microphones within the system so that users of the system know which microphones are active and which are not at any given time. Sometimes.

It may be desirable for individual microphones in such systems to include visual indicators, such as lights, on the microphones themselves to indicate the status of such microphones to the user of the microphone. However, adding lighting to the microphone introduces problems related to electromagnetic interference, radio frequency interference, and other noise that can be injected into the system. For example, a user placing a mobile phone near such a microphone may introduce radio frequency or GSM interference into the system due to imperfections in the electrical design of the microphone. Robustness of the microphone connection is difficult to ensure that the microphone can be easily connected, cannot be unintentionally removed or disrupted, and is not adversely affected by unwanted electromagnetic interference. There are cases.

Therefore, an opportunity exists for a system that addresses these issues. A microphone connector including a lockable keyed engagement that reduces or eliminates unwanted interference while providing an audio signal from the connected microphone and to the connected microphone to indicate the mode or state of the microphone. There is an opportunity for a microphone connector that can send both the lighting signal to the on-board lighting.

The present invention provides, among other things, (1) a lockable keyed engagement between portions of the connector, (2) downstream transmission of audio captured by the microphone and one or two mounted microphones attached to the connected microphone. To solve the above problems by providing a microphone connector and microphone designed to simultaneously enable upstream transmission of illumination signals to the above light sources and (3) minimize or eliminate unwanted electromagnetic interference. is intended.

In one embodiment, a microphone connector assembly comprises a receptacle and a sleeve. The receptacle includes a housing, a first cavity formed within the housing, a frame positioned within the first cavity, and a protrusion formed on the frame. The receptacle further includes a first electrical block supported by the frame and positioned within the first cavity. The sleeve includes an outer shell, a second cavity formed within the outer shell, and a keyway formed within the outer shell and positioned within the second cavity. The sleeve further includes a second electrical block positioned within the second cavity, the sleeve having (i) projections extending into the keyway and (ii) engagement of the first and second electrical blocks with each other. It is insertable into the receptacle so as to do so.

In another embodiment, a microphone comprises a head portion and a microphone body. The head section includes a cartridge and the microphone body supports the head section. The microphone further includes a sleeve connected to the microphone body. The sleeve includes an outer shell, a cavity formed within the outer shell, and a keyway formed on the inner surface of the outer shell. The sleeve further includes an electrical block positioned within the cavity, the electrical block including an array of contact locations configured to accommodate a plurality of electrical contacts. The sleeve further includes a first projection extending from the inner surface of the outer shell.

In yet another embodiment, the microphone connector assembly comprises a sleeve connected to the microphone body of the microphone. The sleeve includes an outer shell, a cavity formed within the outer shell, and a keyway formed on the inner surface of the outer shell. The sleeve further includes an electrical block positioned within the cavity, the electrical block including an array of contact locations configured to accommodate a plurality of electrical contacts. The sleeve further includes a first projection extending from the inner surface of the outer shell.

These and other embodiments and various permutations and aspects will become apparent and become more apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, which present exemplary embodiments showing various ways in which the principles of the invention can be employed. will be fully understood.

1 is a perspective view of a microphone connector of the present invention including a sleeve and receptacle shown in a connected position; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the connected microphone of FIG. 1 shown in a disconnected position; FIG. Figure 3 is a front view of the receptacle of the microphone connector of Figures 1 and 2; 3B is a plan view of the receptacle of FIG. 3A; FIG. Figure 3B is an exploded perspective view of the receptacle of Figures 3A and 3B; Figure 2 is a plan view of an embodiment of the microphone connector of the present invention shown in a locked or engaged position; 5B is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of FIG. 5A taken along section 5B-5B; FIG. 5C is an enlarged detail view of area 5C of the microphone connector of FIG. 5B; FIG. Figure 5B is a plan view of the microphone connector of Figure 5A shown in an unlocked or disengaged position; Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of Figure 6A taken along section 5B-5B; Figure 6B is an enlarged detail view of area 6C of the microphone connector of Figure 6B; FIG. 4 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the microphone connector of the present invention shown in a locked or engaged position; 7B is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of FIG. 7A taken along section 7B-7B; FIG. 7C is an enlarged detail view of area 7C of the microphone connector of FIG. 7B; FIG. Figure 7B is a plan view of the microphone connector of Figure 7A shown in an unlocked or disengaged position; Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of Figure 8A taken along section 8B-8B; 8C is an enlarged detail view of area 8C of the microphone connector of FIG. 8B; FIG. 1 is a plan view of a receptacle of an embodiment of the invention; FIG. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of the receptacle of Figure 9A taken along section 9B-9B showing the contactors of the receptacle; Fig. 2 is a perspective view from the end of the sleeve of the microphone connector of the present invention showing the keying system of the microphone connector; 10B is a perspective view from the end of the receptacle of the microphone connector of FIG. 10A, showing the keying system of the microphone connector; FIG. Figure 1OB is a plan view of the receptacle of the microphone connector of Figure 1OB; 10D is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of FIG. 10C taken along section 10D-10D showing the keying system consisting of the sleeve and receptacle; FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view of the microphone connector of FIG. 10D taken along section 10E-10E showing the keying system consisting of the sleeve and receptacle; FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a microphone assembly of the present invention including a microphone having a sleeve engageable with a receptacle; FIG. 12 is a wiring diagram of the microphone of FIG. 11; FIG. FIG. 4 is an end view of an electrical block of a sleeve of an embodiment of the invention showing contact placement and function;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The following description describes, illustrates, and illustrates one or more specific embodiments of the present invention in accordance with the principles of the invention. This description is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments described herein, but rather to enable those skilled in the art to understand the principles of the invention and, with that understanding, to apply those principles to the present invention. It is presented to explain and teach the principles of the invention so that not only the described embodiments, but also other embodiments that may be envisioned in accordance with these principles may be practiced. The scope of the invention is intended to cover all such embodiments that may fall within the appended claims either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

It should be noted that similar or substantially similar elements may be labeled with similar reference numerals in the specification and drawings. However, different numbers may be given to these elements, for example, where different numbers make the description clearer. Additionally, the drawings shown herein are not necessarily drawn to scale and, in some cases, the proportions may be exaggerated to more clearly show certain features. Such display and drawing techniques do not necessarily contribute to the underlying underlying purpose. As noted above, the specification is intended to be understood and interpreted as a whole in accordance with the principles of the invention as taught herein and as understood by those skilled in the art.

Also, with respect to the exemplary systems, components and architectures described and illustrated herein, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, an embodiment may comprise one or more system, hardware, software or firmware configurations or configurations. It should be understood that a number of configurations and components can be embodied or used, including elements, or any combination thereof. Accordingly, although the drawings illustrate exemplary systems that include components for one or more of the embodiments contemplated herein, for each embodiment one or more components within the system are illustrated. It should be understood that components may not be present or required.

1 and 2, a microphone connector 1 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown. FIG. 1 shows the microphone connector 1 in the connected position, while FIG. 2 shows the microphone connector 1 in the disconnected position. The microphone connector 1 comprises two mating parts, a receptacle 10 and a sleeve 40, which mate together as described herein and operate to cause connection and disconnection of the microphone connector 1. As shown in FIG. Receptacle 10 receives sleeve 40 to complete the connection of microphone connector 1 as shown in FIG. 1 and further described herein.

Generally, sleeve 40 may be connected to microphone 80 (as shown in FIG. 11) and communicate with microphone 80 via a cable or other connector connecting the two, or alternatively Further, as shown in FIG. 11, the sleeve 40 can be directly connected to or integrally formed with the microphone 80, for example, so that it is positioned proximate the end of the microphone. can. In one embodiment, receptacle 10 can be configured to connect to or attach to various surfaces to which a microphone is desired to connect. For example, receptacle 10 may be mounted on a table, lectern, podium, desk, or other location with wiring and cabling from receptacle 10 connecting receptacle 10 to other components of the sound reinforcement system, such as mixers, amplifiers, and the like. Can be surface mounted on any suitable surface.

Sleeve 40 generally comprises an outer shell 42 having an outer surface 44 and an inner surface 46 . In one embodiment, outer shell 42 is rigid and has a generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section. Outer shell 42 forms a thin-walled housing between outer surface 44 and inner surface 46 . Support 50 is mounted inside sleeve 40 and spaced from distal end 48 of sleeve 40 . The support 50 is structurally supported by the sleeve 40 and can be connected to the sleeve 40 or integrally formed therewith. For example, support 50 can be connected to inner surface 46 of sleeve 40 . Support 50 is spaced from distal end 48 of sleeve 40 such that cavity 52 is formed within sleeve 40 proximate distal end 48 .

Cavity 52 is generally formed by inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 and support 50 . In one embodiment, cavity 52 is generally cylindrical in shape defined by the contour of inner wall 46 of outer shell 42 . Sleeve 40 further includes an electrical block 60 that houses electrical contacts and forms an electrical connection when sleeve 40 is mated with receptacle 10 . Electrical block 60 is described in more detail with reference to FIGS. In one embodiment, electrical block 60 is positioned inside cavity 52 and supported therein. Electrical block 60 may be connected to and supported by support 50 or any other suitable structure of sleeve 40 to be positioned and retained within cavity 52 . As will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, receptacle 10 has a corresponding electrical block 30 positioned near opening 24 of receptacle 10 . 1 and 2, electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 communicates with electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 when sleeve 40 communicates with receptacle 10 and the two elements of microphone connector 1 are connected. , thereby forming an electrical connection of the microphone connector 1 .

Electrical block 60 includes a plurality of openings or contact locations 68 (seen in FIG. 10A) that can accommodate electrical contacts 62 of sleeve 40 . Openings or contact locations 68 are entry points for male contacts 32 on electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 . In one embodiment, electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 forms an array or matrix of contact locations 68 , some of which contain audio contacts 64 and others of which contain lighting contacts 66 . can be accommodated. Accordingly, contacts 62 of sleeve 40, and in particular audio contacts 64 and lighting contacts 66, are electrically blocked so as to communicate with contacts 32 of receptacle 10 when sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 are mated or connected. 60 can be positioned proximate to and within contact location 68 of 60 . As shown in FIG. 10A, the contact locations 68 in the electrical block 60 are arranged in rectangular arrays having two rows of five contact locations 68 or forming a 2×5 array of contact locations 68 in the connector 60. arrayed. In alternate embodiments, other geometries of contact locations 68 may be utilized. Further, the electrical blocks 60 of the sleeve 40 also have various geometries and configurations that can complement the geometries of the electrical blocks 30 of the receptacle 10 to support connections between those electrical blocks. can be adopted.

3A, 3B and 4, detailed views of receptacle 10 are shown. Receptacle 10 is generally formed by an outer housing 12 in which the components of receptacle 10 are supported and positioned. Receptacle 10 has an opening 24 at one end and sleeve 40 is received in this opening. Housing 12 of receptacle 10 may include an optional flange 13 near opening 24 that extends from housing 12 to assist in mounting receptacle 10 .

Flange 13 may include one or more mounting holes 14 that receive mounting hardware, such as screws, used to mount receptacle 10 to various surfaces. For example, an appropriately sized hole may be formed in a mounting surface (desk, lectern, conference table, etc.), housing 12 of receptacle 10 may be received through this hole, and flange 13 may abut or against the mounting surface. can stand still. The receptacle 10 can then be attached to this mounting surface by using mounting hardware that is inserted through the holes 14 in the flange 13 and into the mounting surface. In one embodiment, an appropriately sized hole is drilled in the desired mounting surface and a screw is inserted through hole 14 in flange 13 and into the drilled hole to secure flange 13 to the mounting surface. It can be used by installing Various other attachment methods can be used to attach receptacle 10 to various surfaces.

Receptacle 10 further includes an inner frame 16 positioned within cavity 15 formed inside receptacle 10 . Frame 16 is structurally connected to and supported by housing 12 of receptacle 10 as shown. In one embodiment, frame 16 can be a separate component from housing 12, but is supported by housing 12 when the two are interconnected (see FIG. 4). Alternatively, frame 16 may be integrally formed with housing 12 such that it is a single unitary component. The interior of housing 12 of receptacle 10 forms a cavity 15, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 4. FIG. In one embodiment, frame 16 is positioned partially or completely within cavity 15 . Cavity 15 is formed by inner wall 11 of housing 12 and is generally cylindrical in shape.

In one embodiment, frame 16 supports electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 . Electrical block 30 may be supported within frame 16 and protrude through orifice 17 at the end of frame 16 adjacent opening 24 of receptacle 10 . Electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 includes a plurality of electrical contacts 32 , which in one embodiment comprise electrical pins extending from block 30 . In one embodiment, electrical contacts 32 of block 30 in receptacle 10 are male, while corresponding contacts 62 of sleeve 40 are female. In alternative embodiments, the contacts 32, 62 may be reversed or comprise other forms of electrical contacts, which are oriented when the receptacle 10 and sleeve 40 are connected and mated. Finally, the electrical connection between electrical block 30 and electrical block 60 is completed.

Receptacle 10 further includes a latch 20 that engages complementary latch-engagement structure on sleeve 40 to allow receptacle 10 and sleeve 40 to engage when the two are connected together as shown in FIG. can remain mechanically engaged. In one embodiment, latch 20 is a metal bar having a tooth 20a or a plurality of teeth 20a thereon. Latch 20 partially engages inside frame 16 and can be bent to selectively mechanically engage teeth 20 a with sleeve 40 . Sleeve 40 is locked in place with receptacle 10 when latch 20 is engaged. An actuator 21 may be provided for actuating the latch 20 . The actuator 21 comprises sliding metal 21a and may include tabs 21b for actuating the actuator 21, as shown in FIG. 3B. Tab 21b may include a demarcation such as the instruction "PUSH" that provides instructions on how actuator 21 operates. In one embodiment, depression of tab 21b causes metal rod 21a to slide inward into cavity 15 and into contact with latch 20, thereby causing latch 20 to flex. Bending of latch 20 causes tooth 20a to move out of engagement with sleeve 40 and thus actuator 21 actuates latch 20 between the locked and unlocked positions. Operate. In an alternative embodiment, actuator 21 comprises a screw 21c that advances or retreats from a hole in the side of housing 12 of receptacle 10, as shown in FIG. Similar to metal rod 21a, screw actuator 21c operates to flex latch 20 between locked and unlocked positions. The actuation of latch 20 and the operation of the locking mechanism are described in greater detail in connection with FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG.

Receptacle 10 further includes structure forming part of a keying system which acts to ensure that microphone connector 1 can only be connected in one direction. As shown in FIG. 3B, receptacle 10 includes protrusion 18 . The projections 18 mate with corresponding grooves or keyways in the sleeve 40 (shown in more detail in FIGS. 10A-10D) such that the sleeve 40 is only engaged when the projections 18 and keyways are aligned. , so that it can be inserted into the receptacle. In one embodiment, protrusion 18 is located within cavity 15 and connected to frame 16 or integrally formed thereon and extends from the frame into cavity 15 . In alternate embodiments, protrusion 18 may be located on other areas of receptacle 10 , such as on inner wall 11 of housing 12 . The receptacle 10 also includes grooves or keyways 26a,b that mate with corresponding protrusions in the sleeve 40 (shown in more detail in FIGS. 10A-10D) to make the keying system more robust. In one embodiment, the keyways 26 a,b are located on opposite sides of the frame 16 adjacent the electrical block 30 . As with other structures of the keying system, keyways 26a,b mate with projections on sleeve 40 to ensure proper alignment of sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 during insertion. The keying system operates to properly align electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 and electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 to ensure that proper electrical connection between contacts 32 and 62 is made.

As shown in FIG. 4, receptacle 10 further comprises a printed circuit board (or PCB) 25 to which electrical block 30 is connected and supported. PCB 25 provides mechanical support for electrical block 30 as well as electrical access to contacts 32 of electrical block 30 . Therefore, the electrical connection of receptacle 10 can be completed via PCB 25, and receptacle 10 can be connected to other downstream audio equipment such as amplifiers, mixers, etc., to which connector 1 needs to be connected. The PCB 25 is connected and fixed to the housing 12 of the receptacle 10 . In one embodiment, PCB 25 is attached to housing 12 via one or more screws 27 that pass through holes in PCB 25 and into corresponding holes in housing 12 to secure PCB 25 to housing 12 . . However, PCB 25 can be secured to housing 12 in a variety of other ways. Additionally, a ground tab 28 of receptacle 10 can be attached to PCB 25 as shown in FIG. An optional gasket 23 between PCB 25 and housing 12 may be provided to insulate PCB 25 from housing 12 . Ground tab 28 is an optional feature of the present invention and may be omitted in various embodiments. Gasket 23 may comprise a foam gasket or be made from any other suitable insulating material including rubber, vinyl, paper, and the like.

Receptacle 10 may further include contactor 22 . Contactor 22 may comprise a flexible metal bar that ensures an electrical ground connection between frame 16 and housing 12 of receptacle 10 and the structure of sleeve 40 . Specifically, the contactor 22 is bent to insert the contactor 22 between the frame 16 and the housing 12, and the contactor 22 is released so that the frame 16 and the housing 12 are separated from each other. can be inserted between The natural resilience of contactor 22 causes it to remain in contact with both frame 16 and housing 12 . Contactor 22 maintains a ground connection between frame 16, housing 12, other components of receptacle 10, and components of sleeve 40, as described herein, thereby providing a ground connection to the microphone. Electromagnetic isolation and shielding of the connector 1 is enhanced. The construction and operation of contactor 22 is described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 9A and 9B.

5A-5C and 6A-6C, a detailed description of the operation of the locking mechanism of an embodiment of microphone connector 1 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a latch 20 operated by an actuator 21 comprising a sliding metal rod 21a. A cross-sectional view of receptacle 10 in FIG. 5B (taken along line 5B-5B in FIG. 5A) is shown with sleeve 40 connected to receptacle 10 . As shown in FIG. 5B, sleeve 40 is inserted into receptacle 10 until latch 20 engages the locked position. Specifically, as shown in more detail in FIG. 5C, toothing 20a of latch 20 has a lip 56 formed on inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 of sleeve 40. along and over the inner wall 11 of the housing 12 of the receptacle 10 until it reaches . The resilience of the flexible latch 20 causes it to return to its straight (unbent) state, thereby causing the teeth 20a of the latch 20 to be pulled by the lips 56 in the inner surface 46. It is made to enter the formed groove 57 . As teeth 20a enter grooves 57, they engage lips 56 to prevent sleeve 40 from being removed from or removed from receptacle 10. As shown in FIG. In this manner, latch 20, teeth 20a, lip 56 and groove 57 support the locking mechanism of connector 1. FIG. More specifically, lip portion 56 forms a latching engagement structure on sleeve 40 . Alternate embodiments may utilize other latch engagement structures including tabs, detents, teeth, ribs, threads, or other mechanical structures capable of releasably engaging latch 20 .

Removal and removal of sleeve 40 from receptacle 10 can only be accomplished by disengaging latch 20, as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C. Disengaging latch 20 is generally the reverse of the engagement process. In the illustrated embodiment, disengagement is accomplished using an actuator 21 . As shown in FIG. 6B, actuator 21 is a metal rod 21a that is actuated by pushing tab 21b of actuator 21 downward into cavity 15 of receptacle 10. As shown in FIG. Actuator 21 slides downward within housing 12 of receptacle 10 when tab 21b is depressed. In doing so, a molded portion of actuator 21 comes into contact with latch 20 causing latch 20 to flex radially inwardly within cavity 15 of receptacle 10 . As shown in FIG. 6C, when latch 20 flexes under pressure from actuator 21, tooth 20a moves out of groove 57 and disengages lip 56 of sleeve 40. do. Once disengaged, the sleeve 40 can be removed or pulled out of the receptacle 10 thereby disconnecting the microphone connector 1 . In this manner, actuator 21 acts to move latch 20 from an engaged or locked position to a disengaged or unlocked position.

7A-7C and 8A-8C, the operation of an alternative embodiment of the locking mechanism of microphone connector 1 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a latch 20 operated by an actuator 21 including a screw 21c. A cross-sectional view of receptacle 10 in FIG. 7B (taken along line 7B-7B in FIG. 7A) is shown with sleeve 40 connected to receptacle 10 . As shown in FIG. 7B, sleeve 40 is inserted into receptacle 10 until latch 20 engages the locked position. Specifically, as shown in more detail in FIG. 7C, toothing 20a of latch 20 has a lip 56 formed on inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 of sleeve 40. along and over the inner wall 11 of the housing 12 of the receptacle 10 until it reaches . The resilience of the flexible latch 20 causes it to return to its straight (unbent) state, thereby causing the teeth 20a of the latch 20 to be pulled by the lips 56 in the inner surface 46. It is made to enter the formed groove 57 . As teeth 20a enter grooves 57, they engage lips 56 to prevent removal of sleeve 40 from receptacle 10. As shown in FIG. Thus, latch 20, teeth 20a, lip 56 and groove 57 form a locking mechanism for connector 1 to support it.

Removal of sleeve 40 from receptacle 10 can only be accomplished by disengaging latch 20, as shown in FIGS. 8-8C. Disengaging latch 20 is generally the reverse of the engagement process. In the illustrated embodiment, disengagement is performed using actuator 21 . As shown in FIG. 8B, actuator 21 is a screw 21c that passes through a hole in housing 12 of the receptacle. The screw 21c is actuated to advance by tightening the screw 21c into the hole so that the screw 21c extends further into the housing 12 in a direction into the cavity 15 of the receptacle 10. FIG. As screw 21 c advances, the tip of screw 21 c contacts latch 20 causing latch 20 to flex radially inward within cavity 15 of receptacle 10 . As shown in FIG. 8C, when latch 20 is flexed under pressure from screw 21c, tooth 20a moves out of groove 57 and disengages lip 56 of sleeve 40. do. Once disengaged, the sleeve 40 can be disengaged or withdrawn from the receptacle 10 thereby disconnecting the microphone connector 1 . In this manner, actuator 21 acts to move latch 20 from an engaged or locked position to a disengaged or unlocked position.

9A and 9b, detailed views of the construction and operation of contactor 22 of receptacle 10 are shown. 4, contactor 22 ensures grounded electrical contact between various components of receptacle 10, including housing 12 and frame 16, and components of sleeve 40 to provide electromagnetic shielding. and elements of the receptacle 10 for increased resistance. The contactor 22 is preferably made of metal and forms a flexible, resilient metal strip that is inserted into the receptacle 10 during assembly and manufacture as described. A first end 22 a of contactor 22 is electrically connected to ground tab 28 on the bottom surface of receptacle 10 . This electrical connection may be made by soldering the components together, connecting the components using an intermediate wire or other conductor, brazing the components together, or otherwise. can be through any suitable electrical connection, including placing these components in electrical communication directly at the , or through intermediate components. In the illustrated embodiment, first end 22a of contactor 22 extends beyond the bottom of receptacle 10 and connects with ground tab 28 . Thus, first end 22 a of contactor 22 projects through PCB 25 and connects to ground tab 28 on the opposite side of PCB 25 .

Middle portion 22b of contactor 22 physically contacts frame 16 of receptacle 10, as shown in FIG. 9B. Thus, contactor 22 extends into cavity 15 of receptacle 10 such that intermediate portion 22b of contactor 22 contacts frame 16 of receptacle 10, as shown. Top portion 22 c of contactor 22 contacts sleeve 40 when sleeve 40 is inserted into receptacle 10 . Specifically, when the outer shell 42 of the sleeve 40 is inserted into the cavity 15 of the receptacle 10, the inner surface 46 of the outer shell 42 contacts the upper portion 22c of the contactor 22, thereby causing the contactor 22 to extend radially. directionally inwardly into the cavity 15 . The resilience of the contactor 22 causes the upper portion 22c of the contactor 22 to maintain contact with the inner surface 46 of the outer shell 42 of the sleeve 40 by tending to return to the straight, unbent position of the contactor.

The outer surface 44 of the outer shell 42 of the sleeve 40 contacts the inner wall 11 of the housing 12 of the receptacle 10, as shown in Figure 9B. Contactor 22 thus forms an electrically conductive connection between sleeve 40 , housing 12 , and frame 16 to ensure that these components contact ground tabs 28 on the bottom of receptacle 10 . In this manner, contactor 22 forms a grounding envelope for microphone connector 1 by ensuring that housing 12, frame 16, and outer shell 42 of sleeve 40 are all grounded to grounding tabs 28. support that. In an alternative embodiment, contactor 22 may contact housing 12 directly, for example, through inner wall 11 of housing 12 .

Also, other configurations of contactor 22 are possible, which may comprise a plurality of metal strips geometrically positioned to contact sleeve 40, frame 16, housing 12 and ground tabs 28. can. Alternatively, the contactor 22 can be constructed from non-metallic materials such as elastomeric plastics with metal strips, vias or metal strips on these materials to achieve the described electrical conductivity and grounding. It incorporates, is coated with, or otherwise includes conductive portions such as other conductors. By using the contactor 22, when downstream electrical equipment is connected to the microphone connector 1, such equipment can be grounded to the ground tab 28, thereby allowing all of the components of the microphone connector 1 as well as their Ensures that any microphone connected to is properly grounded.

A keying system for the microphone connector 1 is shown in Figures 10A to 10E. The keying system operates to ensure that the sleeve 40 of the microphone connector 1 can be inserted into the receptacle 10 in one or only one orientation so that the electrical connections of the electrical blocks 30, 60 are properly made. . In various embodiments, one or both of the sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 may be adjusted to the proper orientation of the sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 relative to each other during insertion, connection, and locking, as described with reference to exemplary embodiments. Includes engagable mating projections and keyways to ensure

In one embodiment, receptacle 10 includes protrusion 18, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10E. Referring to FIG. 10B, protrusion 18 is located on frame 16 of receptacle 10 inside cavity 15 . Specifically, projection 18 is on the outer surface of frame 16 and extends longitudinally below frame 16 in a direction for inserting sleeve 40 into receptacle 10 . Projection 18 extends radially outward from the center of frame 16 into cavity 15 and has a generally curved or curvilinear surface. As shown in FIG. 10A, a complementary keyway 54 is provided in sleeve 40 and has a similar curved or curvilinear configuration to mate with projection 18 . In the illustrated embodiment, keyway 54 comprises a channel or groove in outer shell 42 of sleeve 40 . As shown in FIG. 10A, keyway 54 is formed in inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 of sleeve 40 . However, in alternate embodiments, the keyway 54 may be located within or on other structures of the sleeve 40 and positioned to be engaged by the protrusion 18 when the sleeve 40 is inserted into the receptacle 10. can.

To ensure directional alignment of sleeve 40 and receptacle 10, the keying system may include a second protrusion/keyway combination. Accordingly, receptacle 10 further includes a plurality of keyways 26a, 26b engageable by complementary projections 58a, 58b on sleeve 40, as shown in FIG. 10B. In the illustrated embodiment, keyways 26 a , 26 b are formed in frame 16 of receptacle 10 on opposite sides of first electrical block 30 . The illustrated keyways 26a, 26b are grooves or channels formed in the outer surface of the frame 16 that extend axially downward along the length of the frame 16 in a direction parallel to the direction of insertion of the sleeve 40 into the receptacle 10. Extend. In this manner, the keyways 26a, 26b are positioned within the cavity 15 of the receptacle 10. FIG.

Complementary projections 58a, 58b provided on sleeve 40 to engage keyways 26a, 26b are shown in FIG. 10A. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 58 a , 58 b are formed inside the second cavity 52 of the sleeve 40 inside the outer shell 42 of the sleeve 40 . More specifically, in this embodiment, protrusions 58 a , 58 b are formed on inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 of sleeve 40 . Protrusions 58 a , 58 b project radially inward from inner surface 46 of outer shell 42 into second cavity 52 . In addition, projections 58 a , 58 b extend axially along inner surface 46 in a direction parallel to the direction of insertion of sleeve 40 into receptacle 10 . Accordingly, protrusions 58 a , 58 b generally have a length similar to the length of second cavity 52 .

10D and 10E, when sleeve 40 is inserted into receptacle 10, sleeve 40 allows protrusion 18 of receptacle 10 to align with keyway 54 of sleeve 40. In order to allow projections 58a, 58b of sleeve 40 to align with keyways 26a, 26b of receptacle 10, rotational alignment with receptacle 10 about the central axis of the sleeve is required. The sleeve 40 can be inserted into the receptacle 10 only in this alignment to allow the microphone connector 1 to be connected and set to the engaged or locked position. In some other rotational alignment, protrusions 18, 58a, 58b prevent and interfere with insertion of sleeve 40 into receptacle 10 by contacting and interfering with other structure inside component cavities 15, 52. will do.

Thus, the keying system of projections 18, 58a, 58b and keyways 26a, 26b, 54 assures rotational alignment of sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 prior to and during insertion and connection. This protects the microphone connector 1 from damage and excessive wear and tear, aligns the electrical blocks 30, 60 so that the contacts 32, 62 therein are properly connected to each other, and the contactor 22 is sleeved. 40 to ensure that the latch 20 properly engages latch-engaging structures on the sleeve 40 such as the lip 56 and groove 57 . This consistent alignment can increase the robustness of the electrical and mechanical connections of the microphone connector 1, allowing for longer life of the connector 1, less failure, damage, or repair, increasing reliability and It can improve performance. Although the keying system in the illustrated embodiment includes a keyway and mating protrusions, other keyway systems can be used as an alternative thereto in addition to the keyways/protrusions.

A microphone 80 utilizing the microphone connector 1 of the present invention is shown in FIG. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the sleeve 40 of the connector 1 is connected to the end 82 of the microphone 80 or formed integrally within this end. The functionality of the microphone 80 resides in the microphone head 81 which is located adjacent to the top 83 of the microphone. In head portion 81 , microphone 80 includes cap 84 on top 83 of microphone 80 . Head portion 81 further includes a cartridge housing 93 at the bottom of head portion 81 . Accordingly, the components of head portion 81 are positioned within cap 84 and cartridge housing 93 and are shown in the exploded view of FIG.

Cap 84 acts to protect the internal components of microphone 80 . In one embodiment, the cap 84 may include a screen or opening to allow acoustic waves from a nearby sound source (such as a speaker) to enter the microphone 80 and be picked up by the microphone 80. Cap 84 may be attached to the body of microphone 80 by any number of mechanical techniques, but in one embodiment set screws 85 pass through holes in cap 84 to attach cap 84 to the top of microphone 80 . Hold at 83.

The microphone 80 further comprises a cartridge 86, which is a transducer element that picks up acoustic waves from sound sources proximate to the microphone 80 and incorporates such waves into an audio signal that passes through the connector 1. transmitted by the microphone 80 via. Cartridge 86 may be any suitable form of transducer, such as a dynamic or condenser microphone cartridge or transducer. Cartridge 86 can be electrically connected to electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 to transmit audio picked up by cartridge 86 via microphone connector 1 to downstream audio components such as amplifiers, mixers, and the like. Cartridge 86 is secured to microphone 80 via a retainer ring 87 which serves to mechanically connect cartridge 86 to the other components of the assembly. Cartridge 86 electrically connects with field effect transistor interface (or FET) 88 . FET 88 controls cartridge 86 and acts to control the transmission of signals received by cartridge 86 . A retainer ring 87 connects FET 88 and cartridge 86 to maintain mechanical contact between the two.

The microphone 80 also includes one or more light sources 90 , which in one embodiment are positioned near the top 83 of the microphone 80 so as to be visible to the user of the microphone 80 near the head portion 80 . . In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the light source 90 is a light emitting diode (or LED) formed in the shape of an annular ring or LED ring. The LEDs 90 forming the ring are supported by and connected to an underlying printed circuit board (lighting PCB) 91 which is electrically connected (via wires) to the electrical block 60 of the sleeve 40 . The lighting PCB 91 receives electrical signals upstream from the system's controller (not shown), which transmits the lighting signals to the electrical block 30 of the receptacle 10 and the electrical connections between the two blocks 30,60. to the electrical block 60 of the sleeve 40 to which the wires are connected, and then to the lighting PCB 91 to activate the LEDs 90 . Accordingly, various control devices such as computers, processors, hardware, software, and other components can be used to actuate the illumination elements of LEDs 90 to indicate the state or mode of microphone 80 during use. can. The LED 90 and lighting PCB 91 are connected to, but spaced from, FET 88 by an intermediate spacer 89 positioned between PCB 91 and FET 88 .

The components of head portion 81 are positioned inside cap 84 and cartridge housing 93 when assembled. LED ring 90 aligns with window 94 in cartridge housing 93 when LED 90 and illumination PCB 91 are positioned within cartridge housing 93 . Window 94 is a transparent or translucent portion of cartridge housing 93 that allows light from LED ring 90 to be visible from outside cartridge housing 93 while at the same time allowing light from LED ring 90 to be seen from elements external to microphone 80 . and protect the lighting PCB 91. In alternate embodiments, window 94 may be omitted by positioning it elsewhere on microphone 80 or by positioning LED 90 external to microphone 80 structure so that it is visible to the user of microphone 80 .

Microphone 80 further includes a microphone body 95, which in one embodiment comprises a shaft 95, such as a flexible gooseneck shaft. In another embodiment, the shaft 95 can be rigid or a combination of flexible and rigid sections. Shaft 95 comprises a hollow tube that supports head portion 81 of microphone 80 away from end 82 of microphone 80 where sleeve 40 is located. Shaft 95 can have various geometries, lengths, widths, and thicknesses depending on the application in which microphone 80 is being used. In one embodiment, shaft 95 is a long, thin member used in microphone 80 that is surface mounted to a lectern, desk, conference table, or other surface. In alternate embodiments, microphone body 95 can take on a variety of other geometries and configurations depending on the application of microphone 80 . For example, desktop microphone 80 may have a generally flat microphone body 95 that sits on a desktop or other suitable surface and accommodates the other components of microphone 80 .

An internal channel of hollow shaft 95 accommodates an electrical cable 96 that connects electrical components (such as cartridge 86 , FET 88 , LED 90 and illumination PCB 91 ) within head portion 81 of microphone 80 with electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 . The end of the electrical cable 96 within the head portion 81 of the microphone 80 is supported by a bushing 92 which keeps the cable 96 positioned within the head portion 81 and specifically within the cartridge housing 93 . It can be a crimp bushing attached to the cable 96 so as to allow it to do so. Bushing 92 abuts a portion of the interior of cartridge housing 93 to prevent cable 96 from being unintentionally pulled or pulled out of housing 93 . Alternatively, cable 96 can be secured to head portion 81 of microphone 80 and cartridge housing 93 in a variety of other ways, including soldering, clamping, and the like. Electrical cable 96 comprises a plurality of wires connecting functional components within head portion 81 of microphone 80 to electrical block 60 within sleeve 40 . The wires of electrical cable 96 and their function are described in more detail with respect to FIG.

FIG. 12 shows an electrical circuit diagram of one embodiment of the microphone 80 and microphone connector 1 of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 12 shows PCB 61 of sleeve 40 (connected to second electrical block 60), lighting PCB 91 (communicating with LED 90), and FET 88 (communicating with and controlling the cartridge). shows the electrical connections between Electrical block 60 includes a plurality of contacts 62 including audio contacts 64 and lighting contacts 66 that terminate on PCB 61 of electrical block 60 . Audio contacts 64 are connected to FET 88 via wires that pass through electrical cable 96 to enable cartridge 86 functionality. Acoustic waves received by cartridge 86 are converted to an electrical signal, transmitted to FET 88 and routed down corresponding wires in electrical cable 96 to audio contacts 64 of electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 . Electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 is in electrical communication with electrical block 30 of receptacle 10 when sleeve 40 is connected to receptacle 10 as described herein. Thus, the audio signal is transmitted to the corresponding audio contacts 34 of receptacle 10 and then to other audio components (amplifiers, mixers, etc.) of the system connected via PCB 25 of receptacle 10 . In this manner, the electrical wiring of microphone 80 supports downstream transmission of audio signals from cartridge 86 across connector 1 via electrical blocks 30,60.

Similarly, lighting contacts 66 of electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 are connected to LED ring 90 via lighting PCB 91 to enable operation of light sources within LED ring 90 . Thus, lighting control signals received via lighting contacts 66 are transmitted to the lighting PCB via wires in electrical cable 96, as shown in FIG. In response to the illumination signal, illumination PCB 91 activates the light sources in LED ring 90 to illuminate LEDs 80 such that information regarding the state or mode of microphone 80 is transmitted. When sleeve 40 is connected to receptacle 10 as described herein, the downstream control system sends lighting control signals to upstream receptacle 10 through wires connected to PCB 25 of receptacle 10 . These illumination signals are then transmitted across the electrical block 30 of the receptacle 10 to the electrical block 60 of the sleeve via corresponding illumination contacts 36, 66 of the electrical block. Illumination signals received at electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 are further transmitted upstream to illumination PCB 91 to control the illumination of LEDs 90 . In this way, microphone connector 1 acts bi-directionally to pass audio signals picked up by cartridge 86 of microphone 80 to downstream audio devices connected to receptacle 10 while simultaneously connecting to receptacle 10. A lighting control signal is sent upstream from the integrated control system to the lighting PCB 91 and the LED 90 of the microphone 80 to illuminate the LED 90 .

Referring to FIG. 13, an end view embodiment of sleeve 40 is shown and various functions of electrical block 60 on the sleeve are illustrated. As with other embodiments, electrical block 60 of sleeve 40 is positioned within cavity 52 of sleeve 40 and supported by support 50 . The electrical block 60 communicates with a PCBA (not shown) in the sleeve 40 which communicates with various electrical contacts 62 on the electrical block 60 to transmit received electrical signals to microphones connected to the sleeve 40 and other microphones. communicate to the components of In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical block has ten contacts 62 a through 62 j located at corresponding contact locations 68 formed within the electrical block 60 . Contact locations 68, and thus contacts 62a through 62j therein, are arranged in a rectangular array forming a matrix having two rows and five columns, or a "2.times.5" matrix, as shown in FIG. be.

In this embodiment, the ten contacts 62a-62j have different functions. The specific function of each contact 62a through 62j is shown in Table 1 below.

Table 1

Thus, the various contacts 62a through 62j in Table 1 are connected to the PCB (not shown) of sleeve 40, which in turn is connected to sleeve 40 and connected microphones (such as microphone 80 in FIG. 11). Route signals between the appropriate components in Contacts 62 a through 62 j include audio contacts 64 as well as lighting contacts 66 . Contacts 62a through 62j may optionally include information contacts, such as microphone identifier contacts 62a,d.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, lighting contacts 66 include a lighting supply voltage 62g and lighting controls 62h, 62i, 62j for multiple light sources. Illumination supply voltage 62g provides an operating voltage to the light source mounted on the microphone, which in one embodiment may be +10.5V DC. The lighting control contacts 62h,i,j serve to send control signals to the light sources on the microphones to activate them by turning them on, off, blinking, etc. Thus, these three lighting control contacts 62h, 62i, 62j in the illustrated embodiment are capable of activating these three separate light sources on the microphone (such as blue, green, and red LEDs, respectively).

In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, the audio contacts 64 include a capsule supply voltage 62b and two microphone capsule audio channels 62c, 62e. Capsule supply voltage 62 b provides input voltage to one or more microphone cartridges or capsules within the microphone connected to sleeve 40 . Thus, in one embodiment, capsule supply voltage 62b provides +5V DC to the microphone cartridge. Electrical block 60 in FIG. 13 supports microphones with up to two cartridges. Contact 62 thus includes a first microphone capsule audio channel 62e and a second microphone capsule audio channel 62c. These microphone capsule audio channels return audio picked up by the first and second microphone cartridges on the microphone board connected to the sleeve 40 .

Block 60 in FIG. 13 may optionally include one or more information contacts, such as contacts 62a and 62d. In this embodiment, the information contacts 62a, 62d are microphone identifier contacts 62a, 62d that communicate with the microphone and cartridge connected to the sleeve 40 . Microphone identifier contacts 62 a , 62 d return an identification signal that relays information regarding what type of microphone and/or cartridge is connected to sleeve 40 . In this way, the control system connected to the receptacle 10 side of connector 1 will know which type of microphone and/or cartridge is connected to the sleeve 40 side of connector 1 . In another embodiment, other information is sent via the information contact to allow sharing of data regarding the configuration, components, status, mode and operation of the connector 1 and the components connected to this connector. .

In some embodiments, the various keyway/projection combinations perform complementary functions. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the keyway 54 on the sleeve 40 and the protrusion 18 on the receptacle 10 are of relatively small size, and prior to insertion of the sleeve 40 into the receptacle 10, the and in between primarily acts as a positioning mechanism to ensure proper alignment of sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 . The keyways 54 and projections 18 generally have arcuate shapes or arcuate surfaces and have substantially semi-circular cross-sections. This keyway 54 and projection 18 is larger than the second keyway/projection combination of connector 1 , namely keyways 26 a, 26 b in receptacle 10 and mating projections 58 a, 58 b on sleeve 40 . is substantially small. Thus, this keyway 54 and protrusion 18 combination acts primarily (or in some embodiments solely) as a positioning mechanism for alignment during insertion.

Keyways 26a, 26b in receptacle 10 (and corresponding projections 58a, 58b in sleeve 40) are larger, more robust mechanical engagement structures having generally rectangular cross-sections. Accordingly, these complementary structures not only align sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 during insertion, but also provide structural support and rigidity to connector 1 when sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 are connected. can act. Thus, when the two portions of connector 1 are inserted together, the mechanical engagement of projections 58a, 58b and keyways 26a, 26b provides resistance to torsion, bending, bending and other lateral forces on the connector. and thus acts to provide mechanical support to connector 1 while sleeve 40 is inside receptacle 10 . Thus, the combination of these keyways 26a,b and projections 58a, 58b serve both for positioning (during insertion) and support (after insertion). Accordingly, keyways/projections may be primarily (or solely) locating keyway/projection combinations, depending on the size, shape, length, geometry, tolerances, and configuration of these keyways/projections. or act as either a locating and supporting keyway/projection combination.

A control system may be coupled to receptacle 10 using the connection of microphone connector 1 to control lighting 90 on microphone 80 connected via sleeve 40 to indicate the state or mode of microphone 80 . For example, when the microphone 80 is "on" or "active," the control system may cause the LED 80 to illuminate a certain color (such as green) indicating that the microphone 80 is active and transmitting sound through the cartridge. It can be made to indicate that it is being picked up. This visual indication of "green" informs the user of microphone 80 that he or she can now speak into microphone 80 as it is turned on and active. acts like In another example, the control system may cause the LED 80 to illuminate a different color (such as red) to indicate that the microphone 80 is "off" or "inactive" and the microphone 80 is in "mute" mode. can be shown. This visual indication of "red" acts to notify the user of microphone 80 that it is not picking up sound due to the "muted" state of this microphone 80 .

In another embodiment, the LED 90 can be illuminated by the control system in a wide variety of ways to provide several visual indicators corresponding to various states or modes of the microphone 80. The LEDs 90 can illuminate in different colors corresponding to various modes or states. Alternatively, the LEDs 90 can be illuminated with different lighting patterns (solid-state lighting, short blinks, long blinks, blinks, etc.) to indicate different states or modes in which the microphone 80 is set. The use of LEDs 90 allows the control system to visually indicate various information to the user of microphone 80 . In larger systems with a large number of microphones 80, the control system utilizes a wide variety of colors and lighting patterns to provide a large amount of information regarding the state and mode of microphones 80 in such systems. Can be communicated to many users.

The locking and keying features of the microphone connector 1 described herein provide a robust mechanical connection that ensures a durable and robust electrical connection so that the microphone 80 can be used optimally. The keyways and protrusions described herein are designed so that the electrical blocks 30, 60 are properly connected when the sleeve 40 is inserted into the receptacle 10 in the proper orientation and the corresponding audio contacts 34, 64 and lighting contacts 34, 64 are connected. Ensures correct pairing of contacts 36,6. Additionally, the latch 20 mechanism cooperates with the lip 56 and groove 57 of the sleeve 40 to keep the sleeve 40 and receptacle 10 connected. This prevents the connector 1 from being unintentionally disconnected during use, for example if a user or other object bumps or contacts it. Latch 20 simultaneously supports easy disconnection of sleeve 40 from receptacle 10 via actuator 21 while providing a robust electromechanical connection. If the user wishes to remove the microphone or disconnect it, the user simply actuates actuator 21 to disengage latch 20 and set connector 1 to the unlocked state. Allows removal of the sleeve 40 from the receptacle 10. This feature supports easy removal of the microphone 80 for service, maintenance, repair, or replacement, for example. This disengagement further allows different microphones 80 to be used and different microphones 80 to be used by disconnecting unwanted microphones 80 and reconnecting different microphones 80 to different available receptacles 10 of the system. Allows quick and easy replacement and replacement.

Further, the structure, configuration, and various components of the microphone connector 1 of the present invention support delivery of high quality audio signals by microphones 80 using such connector 1. FIG. Microphone connector 1 provides excellent shielding from unwanted electrical and radio frequency interference, for example from microphone 80 and mobile phones active in close proximity to microphone connector 1 . The metallic construction of receptacle 10 supports such enhanced shielding. Additionally, the contactor 22 positioned between the frame 16 and housing 12 of the receptacle 10 and the sleeve 40 ensures excellent grounding of the entire receptacle 10 to the ground tabs 28 and contains the electrical blocks 30, 60 therein. A "ground envelope" is created around the receptacle 10 and sleeve 40 components. These and other features of connector 1 minimize the influence of external electrical and radio frequency devices, thereby maintaining microphone 80 capturing high quality sound.

The electrical blocks 30, 60 used in the microphone connector 1 can be any variety of suitable electrical connectors, plugs, jacks or terminators. Preferably, the electrical blocks 30, 60 are insulated so that when the contacts 32, 62 therein are connected, these contacts are connected to the housing 12 and frame 16 of the receptacle 10 and the outer shell 42 and support of the sleeve 40. It becomes insulated from other components of the microphone connector 1 such as the body 50 . In one embodiment, electrical blocks 30,60 are mating plastic components (such as plugs and jacks) that house internal contacts 32,62 therein. Contacts 32, 62 can be connected to wires that can be connected to other external components. Alternatively, the contacts 32, 62 can be connected to a printed circuit board through which external connections can be made. The use of isolated electrical blocks 30,60 ensures that audio signals passed downstream by the audio contacts and lighting signals passed upstream by the lighting contacts 34,64 of the electrical blocks 30,60 are not affected by external unwanted electromagnetic interference. and ensure that the lighting and audio signals do not affect each other. Microphone connector 1, when combined with the grounding and shielding properties of sleeve 40 and receptacle 10, provides audio and electrical power through insulated electrical blocks 30, 60 and insulated wires and/or conductors connected to these blocks. Provides an excellent conduit for lighting signals.

Blocks in any process description or diagram should be understood to represent modules, segments, or portions of code that contain one or more executable instructions for performing a particular logical function or step in the process. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, alternative implementations may allow functions to be performed out of order from that shown or described, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. , are included within the scope of embodiments of the present invention.

This disclosure is intended to describe how to make and use the various embodiments in accordance with the techniques of the invention, and to describe the true, intended, fair scope and spirit of the invention. It is not limited. The above description is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments provide the best explanation of the principles of the described technology and its practical application, and also enable those skilled in the art to adapt the technology in various embodiments and to the specific applications envisioned. It has been selected and described so that it can be used with various modifications. All such modifications and variations are intended for the embodiments defined by the appended claims, as they may be amended during the pendency of this patent application, and such embodiments may fairly, without limitation, be subject to common law. all equivalents to such embodiments when construed in accordance with the breadth of rights to which they are entitled, both legally and equitably.

10 Receptacle 12 Housing 15 First Cavity 16 Frame 18 Protrusion 30 First Electrical Block 40 Sleeve 42 Outer Shell 52 Second Cavity 54 Keyway 60 Second Electrical Block

Claims (13)

a head section including a cartridge;
a microphone body that supports the head portion;
a sleeve connected to the microphone body;
wherein the sleeve comprises:
an outer shell;
a cavity formed within the outer shell;
a keyway formed in the inner surface of the outer shell;
including an array of contact locations positioned within the cavity and configured to receive a plurality of electrical contacts, including a plurality of audio contacts and a plurality of lighting contacts, one of the plurality of lighting contacts; or two or more, a first electrical block in communication with the cartridge ;
a first protrusion extending from the inner surface of the outer shell proximate a first end of the first electrical block;
A microphone comprising: A microphone according to claim 1, wherein the array is a rectangular array and comprises ten contact positions arranged in a 2x5 matrix. wherein said microphone further comprises a light attached to one or more of said head portion, shaft or said microphone body, said one or more of said plurality of light contacts communicating with said light. Item 1. The microphone according to item 1. 2. The microphone of claim 1, wherein the keyway has a generally arcuate surface and includes a positioning feature. 5. The microphone of claim 4 , wherein the first projection has a substantially rectangular cross-section and comprises structural features. further comprising a second protrusion extending from the inner surface of the outer shell, the second protrusion proximate a second end of the first electrical block and extending between the first and second protrusions; are 180 degrees opposite the outer shell. The sleeve is insertable into a receptacle, the receptacle comprising:
a housing;
a second cavity formed in the housing;
a frame positioned within the second cavity;
a third protrusion formed on the frame;
a second electrical block supported by the frame and positioned within the second cavity;
2. The microphone of claim 1, comprising: 3. The sleeve is insertable into the receptacle such that (i) the third projection extends into the keyway and (ii) the first and second electrical blocks engage one another. 7. The microphone according to 7. 9. The microphone of Claim 8 , wherein said receptacle further comprises a second keyway formed in said frame proximate to an end of said second electrical block. 10. A microphone according to claim 9 , wherein the first protrusion penetrates the second keyway when the sleeve is inserted into the receptacle. 11. The microphone of claim 10 , wherein the third protrusion and the keyway have generally arcuate surfaces and include positioning features. 11. The microphone of Claim 10 , wherein the first projection and the second keyway have a generally rectangular cross-section and comprise structural features. The receptacle further comprises a latch, the sleeve further comprises a latch-engaging structure, the latch-engaging structure comprising a lip formed within the inner surface of the outer shell, the latch engaging the 8. A microphone according to claim 7 , including at least one tooth that enters a groove formed by the lip.

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